You Have to Be Willing to Fight: Treva Miller Receives Uplift Woman of the Year Award at Iredell Health Foundation’s International Women’s Day Breakfast

When Treva Miller received the devastating news of a cancerous tumor over 11 years ago, she had no idea her challenging journey through breast cancer would inspire a movement of compassion and support that continues to touch lives today.

In November of 2012, Miller was visiting her doctor for what she thought would be a routine appointment. However, it was here that her doctor found a cancerous tumor. Miller was told she had breast cancer, and shortly thereafter, her life began to change very quickly.

“Everything happened very fast because my breast cancer was an aggressive type of cancer. No one else in my family at that time had been diagnosed with breast cancer, so everything was completely new to me,” said Miller.

Like many facing a life-altering illness, Miller sought the compassion and support of others who had been on this journey before. However, she was discouraged to discover a lack of support groups in the community that fit her needs.

“I couldn’t really find any support groups of others who had gone through the same thing. If I did find one, it was really early in the morning or at times when I couldn’t attend,” said Miller.

Rather than accept this as a setback, Miller saw it as an opportunity to make a difference.

“In 2013, I was still taking my chemotherapy, and I called together a group of friends. Some of them were caregivers of people who had cancer, and some had experienced cancer themselves. I told them, ‘We have to do something. Let’s come together to see how we can help other people,’” she said.

After speaking to the other women, Miller was excited to learn that they were just as eager to connect as she was.

With Miller and her new network of cancer survivors by her side, Divas Fighting Like Girls was founded. They adopted the slogan, “Pink Heals,” and together, they offer a lifeline of empathy, understanding, education, and practical assistance to women of all stages in their cancer journey.

“Divas Fighting Like Girls is a nonprofit breast cancer support group, or team, as we like to call ourselves. We work together as a team to make things happen and support those who are traveling the journey of breast cancer,” said Miller.

Now, Miller has been cancer-free for more than 10 years, but by going through this journey herself, she remembers things that brought her comfort that she can now provide for others. For example, Divas Fighting Like Girls regularly visits Iredell Infusion Care to bring snacks and offer support to patients receiving chemotherapy.

“Divas Fighting Like Girls can help you mentally, physically, emotionally, and we can help you financially. If you need a wig or even a gas card, we can help you,” said Miller.

If you ever attend a Diva’s Fighting Like Girls meeting, you will undoubtedly feel encouraged to fight. Reflecting on her own journey, Miller says it all starts with your mentality.

“If you don't get this under control mentally, then the rest of your body follows suit,” said Miller. “When I originally started my journey, I said I wasn’t taking chemotherapy. But, my husband told me, ‘No, you’re going to do whatever you need to do to live.’ At that point, I knew I needed to do what I had to do to fight this battle.”

“So, when I would go to chemo, I would say, ‘I can take chemo today because next week I’m going on a cruise or traveling.’ Mentally, I knew I needed to live life while I could live it. So that is why I tell everyone that you cannot give up in the mind,” said Miller.

Miller says the key is having a positive mindset despite your challenges.

“Live life while you can live it. Whatever you liked to do before you were stricken with this, you’ve got to keep doing it. There’s going to be some days where you’re not going to feel like it, and that’s OK. Rest, do what you need to do, but just don’t stay there and dwell on it. Get up out of bed, put your makeup on, and go about your day,” said Miller.

When asked what fulfills her, Miller says it’s seeing others change their mindsets and be determined to fight.

“I talked to a lady who was really upset, and I began to minister to her those same things. When I got off the phone, I could feel her smile. And she said, ‘Thank you so much. Because of your encouragement, I feel so much better.’ I know we are doing what the Lord has placed us here to do,” said Miller.

With a heart full of empathy and a wealth of personal experience, Miller has become a pillar of strength for women on their breast cancer journey. Whether it’s offering a listening ear, providing mentorship to newly diagnosed women, or ensuring that no one faces the challenges of treatment alone, Miller and Divas Fighting Like Girls have touched the lives of many.

“Even 11 years later, I still think about it, but I keep it moving. I say, ‘Cancer, if you’re going to come back, then you’re going to have to keep up with me. And that's how we came up with Divas Fighting Like Girls — you have to be willing to fight,” she said.

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At the Iredell Health Foundation’s International Women’s Day Breakfast, Treva Miller received the Uplift Woman of the Year award. This esteemed recognition is bestowed upon a local woman who embodies exceptional qualities of leadership, resilience, and empowerment, making a remarkable impact in our community. Treva Miller's dedication and tireless efforts truly exemplify the spirit of this prestigious award.